The practice of neutrality in a post-Lisbon EU

Abstract

This historical type of research enables us to understand the meaning of the concept of neutrality. Hence, the qualitative study starts with a historical overview of the meaning of 'neutrality'. The concept of neutrality is quite broad. The first chapters build up on the examination of the meaning of the concept itself thus enabling a better understanding of the foundation of the dissertation. The term is derived from the word 'neuter' which is the Latin word for 'of neither side'. History shows that neutrality is a very sensitive practice in which those countries adhering to it were often forced or persuaded out of this status. Neutrality is a policy instrument intended to restrict and regulate armed force. It can take different forms namely: permanent, neutralism, armed, differential and non-alignment. In fact one of the reasons why the concept has survived is because it was able to adapt to different situations through these five fonns. When we come to Europe, the presence of neutral countries within the EU changed its significance over time. In fact the EU operates the CFSP and the Lisbon Treaty's framework which aim for collective security and defence measures for the benefit of its member states. Even more the practice of neutrality today changed in a way that rather than neutrality being linked with the sovereignty of each country, it is being linked to the EU as a whole. A further understanding of the concept in international law is supported through the study of non-alignment which is another form of neutrality. Non-alignment which is not directly related to war is regarded as a political concept and a policy of peace-time relationships. Article 42.7 of the Lisbon Treaty, also known as the mutual defence clause, explains the defence and security measures of the EU. This Article is regarded as a mechanism for aid and assistance in cases of armed conflicts in which all the member states are obliged to adhere to. On the other hand Article 222, known as the solidarity clause, urges all member states to help and assist each other in case of crises, disasters and emergencies that might erupt. Its scope is related to Article 42. 7 with many common nuances evidently shown. The last chapter analyses six neutral/non-aligned countries members of the EU (Austria, Finland, Ireland, Malta, Sweden and Cyprus) to show how their status of neutrality throughout history has shaped their decisions and policies. It is revealed that their traditional adherence to neutrality and their practice changed in recent years mainly through the EU' s policies not least by the Lisbon Treaty's framework.